Devastating Category 5 Hurricane Melissa Unleashes Flooding and Destructive Winds on Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — Hurricane Melissa made landfall on Jamaica as a catastrophic Category 5 storm, causing severe flooding, uprooting trees, and tearing roofs off buildings. Winds reached up to 185 mph (295 kph), creating dangerous conditions and prompting local officials to warn about the lengthy recovery process.

“No structure can withstand a Category 5 hurricane,” said Prime Minister Andrew Holness. “The main concern now is how quickly we can recover.”

In the community of Black River, several families found themselves trapped in their homes. Rescues were impossible due to the perilous situation, according to Desmond McKenzie from Jamaica’s Disaster Risk Management Council. “We’re hoping for conditions to improve so we can reach those in need,” he stated.

The southwestern parish of St. Elizabeth faced significant flooding. McKenzie confirmed that it was too soon to gauge the full extent of the damage, especially since the hurricane continued to batter the island.

Rohan Brown, from Jamaica’s Meteorological Service, advised that as Melissa moved away from the coast, it would create a heavy storm surge in northern Jamaica. The storm is expected to make landfall in Cuba soon.

Over 15,000 residents sought shelter, while about 540,000, or nearly 77%, were without power. Despite warnings, some local teens ventured outside, curious about experiencing such extreme weather for the first time. “It feels like the world is falling apart,” shared 15-year-old Gavin Fuller with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

Emergency adviser Colin Bogle noted that most people were trying to stay safe indoors as sounds of destruction echoed outside. “People are anxious and just waiting for the storm to pass,” he said.

By Tuesday night, Hurricane Melissa had winds of 125 mph (205 kph) and was moving into the Caribbean, leaving widespread fear of further destruction in its wake. Officials reported multiple hospitals were damaged, and at least one was forced to evacuate patients due to power outages.

The storm has already been linked to several fatalities across the Caribbean, emphasizing the serious risks associated with such natural disasters. Richard Thompson, acting director of Jamaica’s emergency management office, explained they were preparing to clear debris and distribute relief supplies once it was safe to do so.

Meanwhile, in Cuba, where Melissa is expected to strike next, authorities prepared for potential devastation. Tens of thousands were evacuated, and individuals like Eduviges Figueroa opened their homes to provide shelter for those in need. “We’re helping as best as we can,” she mentioned, exemplifying the spirit of community during crises.

The government has dispatched necessary supplies and personnel in anticipation of rescue operations. Weather experts warn that climate change could lead to more extreme storms like Melissa, making preparedness essential for coastal communities in the future.

As the storm approaches, with forecasts of up to 20 inches (51 centimeters) of rain, both Jamaica and Cuba brace for the aftermath. Social media trends reflect a mix of anxiety and support as residents share updates and rally together in response to the storm’s devastating impact.

As we monitor the situation, both governments have deployed resources for immediate recovery efforts. The resilience of these communities will be key in facing the challenges ahead.

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Natural disasters, Hurricanes and typhoons, Desmond McKenzie, Storms, Andrew Holness, Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaica, Caribbean Sea, Caribbean, Cuba, Oceans, General news, Latin America, Hurricanes, Central America, Climate and environment, Rick Thompson, Hurricane Melissa, Gavin Fuller, Politics, Miguel Daz-Canel, World news, Colin Bogle, Rohan Brown, Climate